Saint-Germain-des-Pres, nestled in the 6th arrondissement of Paris, is a neighborhood that epitomizes Parisian elegance and charm. This area is steeped in history, having been the heart of intellectual and artistic life in Paris for centuries.
Today, St. Germain is a vibrant blend of old-world charm and modern luxury, with its cobblestone streets, historic cafés, and chic boutiques attracting locals and visitors alike. Whether you’re planning a romantic getaway or a cultural exploration, St. Germain offers an unparalleled experience of Parisian life. This guide will walk you through the best places to stay, eat, and things to do, along with insider tips to make the most of your visit.
The Charm of Saint Germain
St. Germain is not just a neighborhood; it’s an experience. Walking through its streets, you’ll be transported back to a time when great minds like Jean-Paul Sartre and Simone de Beauvoir discussed philosophy in the iconic cafés. The area is rich with history, yet it has evolved into a hub of luxury shopping, fine dining, and contemporary art. From the stunning architecture of its historic buildings to the tranquil beauty of the Luxembourg Gardens, St. Germain is a place where the past and present coexist harmoniously.
One of the defining features of St. Germain is its café culture. Here, the simple act of sipping coffee becomes a ritual, a way to pause and soak in the ambiance. The neighborhood is also home to some of Paris’s most famous landmarks, including the Église Saint-Sulpice and the Musée Delacroix. Despite its popularity, St. Germain retains a local, intimate feel, making it a perfect base for exploring the wider city.
Where to Stay in Saint Germain
St. Germain offers a variety of accommodation options, from luxurious hotels to charming boutique stays. Saint Germain is actually my favorite area to stay in Paris. The location is awesome, its within walking distance of a lot of popular attractions. Here are some of the best places to stay in the neighborhood:
1. Hôtel d’Aubusson
For a luxurious stay in the heart of St. Germain, Hôtel d’Aubusson is a perfect choice. Housed in a 17th-century townhouse, this hotel boasts elegant rooms with exposed beams, plush furnishings, and a jazz bar. It’s a short walk from the Seine, offering easy access to the rest of Paris.
Tip: Book a room with a view of the courtyard for a quiet, peaceful retreat.
2. La Villa Saint-Germain-des-Prés
This boutique hotel is chic and contemporary, offering stylish rooms with modern amenities. La Villa Saint-Germain-des-Pres is located just steps away from the famous Café de Flore and Les Deux Magots, making it an ideal base for exploring the neighborhood’s café culture.
Tip: The hotel’s breakfast is highly recommended, featuring a selection of French pastries, cheeses, and fresh juices.
3. Hotel Montalembert
If you’re looking for a blend of modern luxury and historic charm, Hotel Montalembert is an excellent choice. This 5-star hotel offers elegantly designed rooms and suites, a cozy library, and an on-site restaurant serving gourmet cuisine.
Tip: Ask for a room with a balcony for stunning views of the Parisian rooftops.
4. Hotel Pont Royal
For a stay that combines luxury with literary history, Hotel Pont Royal is a great choice. This 5-star hotel is known for its connections to literary figures like Albert Camus and Gabriel Garcia Marquez, who were regular guests. The hotel’s elegant rooms offer views of the Eiffel Tower and the Parisian skyline. With its refined décor, on-site Michelin-starred restaurant, and close proximity to the Seine, Hotel Pont Royal offers a quintessential St. Germain experience. The Hotel Pont Royal is my favorite hotel I’ve stayed in so far in Paris. The rooms are beautiful and we had a balcony with a gorgeous view of the Eiffel Tower and the rooftops of Paris.
Tip: Book a room on a higher floor for the best views, and take advantage of the hotel’s concierge service to book exclusive tours or restaurant reservations.
Where to Eat in Saint Germain
St. Germain is a food lover’s paradise, offering a mix of historic cafés, fine dining restaurants, and casual eateries. Here are some must-visit spots:
1. Café de Flore
One of the most famous cafés in Paris, Café de Flore has been a meeting place for intellectuals and artists since the 19th century. Enjoy a classic French breakfast, a light lunch, or simply sip on a coffee while people-watching.
Tip: Try the croque-monsieur; it’s a house specialty!
2. Les Deux Magots
Just across the street from Café de Flore, Les Deux Magots is another iconic spot in St. Germain. Once frequented by writers like Ernest Hemingway and Simone de Beauvoir, this café offers a menu full of French classics.
Tip: The hot chocolate here is a must-try, especially in the colder months.
3. L’Avant Comptoir
For a more casual dining experience, L’Avant Comptoir is a standing-room-only wine bar that serves delicious small plates (tapas style). The atmosphere is lively, and the food is fresh and inventive, with a focus on local ingredients.
Tip: Don’t leave without trying the duck confit slider—an absolute treat!
4. Le Procope
As the oldest café in Paris, Le Procope has been serving guests since 1686. The interior is filled with historical artifacts, and the menu offers classic French dishes like coq au vin and escargots.
Tip: Reserve a table in advance, especially for dinner, as it tends to get busy.
5. Pierre Hermé
If you have a sweet tooth, make sure to visit Pierre Hermé’s boutique. Known as the “Picasso of Pastry,” Hermé offers a variety of exquisite macarons and pastries that are almost too beautiful to eat.
Tip: The Ispahan macaron, with its combination of rose, lychee, and raspberry, is a crowd favorite.
6. Le Relais de l’Entrecôte
This restaurant is a favorite among locals and tourists alike, known for serving just one dish: steak frites. But what they do, they do exceptionally well. The steak is cooked to perfection, and the secret sauce is legendary.
Tip: There’s no need to look at the menu—just tell the server how you like your steak cooked. And don’t worry, dessert is available!
Things to Do in Saint Germain
St. Germain offers a wealth of activities, from exploring historic sites to shopping at luxury boutiques. Here’s what you shouldn’t miss:
1. Explore the Luxembourg Gardens
One of the most beautiful parks in Paris, the Luxembourg Gardens is perfect for a leisurely stroll. You’ll find manicured lawns, statues, and even a large pond where children can sail model boats. The Luxembourg Gardens are my favorite in Paris. There is nothing better than waking up early, getting a coffee and a fresh croissant and eating them in the Gardens.
Tip: Visit the Medici Fountain, a stunning Renaissance fountain hidden in the gardens.
2. Visit the Église Saint-Sulpice
This impressive church is one of the largest in Paris and is known for its stunning architecture and rich history. The church also houses one of the most famous pipe organs in the world, so if you can, attend a Sunday service to hear it in action.
Tip: Fans of “The Da Vinci Code” will recognize Saint-Sulpice from the novel and movie.
3. Browse the Art Galleries
St. Germain is home to numerous art galleries, offering everything from contemporary art to classic works. Take some time to explore these galleries, many of which are located on Rue de Seine and Rue Bonaparte.
Tip: The Musée Delacroix, located in the artist’s former home, is a hidden gem for art lovers.
4. Shop at the Bouquinistes
The iconic bouquinistes, or booksellers, along the Seine River sell vintage books, prints, and postcards. Browsing these stalls is a delightful way to find unique souvenirs or simply soak up the literary history of Paris.
Tip: Visit in the morning when the stalls first open for the best selection.
5. Explore the Literary Heritage
St. Germain has a rich literary history, and many famous writers, such as Ernest Hemingway, F. Scott Fitzgerald, and Jean-Paul Sartre, lived and wrote in this neighborhood. You can follow in their footsteps by visiting their favorite haunts and learning about their lives.
Tip: Consider taking a guided literary walking tour to gain deeper insights into the area’s literary connections.
6. Visit the Musée National Eugène Delacroix
Dedicated to the life and works of the Romantic painter Eugène Delacroix, this small museum is located in his former apartment and studio. It offers a unique glimpse into the artist’s life and work, with a lovely garden that provides a peaceful escape from the city’s hustle and bustle.
Tip: The museum is often less crowded than other Parisian museums, making it a pleasant spot for quiet reflection.
7. Enjoy the Café Culture
St. Germain’s café culture is legendary, and spending time at one of its historic cafés is a must-do. Whether you’re at Café de Flore or Les Deux Magots, take the time to relax, sip on a coffee, and watch the world go by. This is where great minds once met, and the ambiance is steeped in history.
Tip: Mornings and late afternoons are the best times to visit, as cafés can get busy during lunch and dinner hours.
8. Discover the Local Boutiques
St. Germain is a shopper’s paradise, with a mix of high-end boutiques, antique shops, and independent stores. Rue de Rennes and Rue Bonaparte are particularly popular for shopping, offering everything from designer clothing to unique home decor items.
Tip: Don’t miss the Marché Saint-Germain, an indoor market where you can find gourmet food items, flowers, and artisanal products.
Saint Germain Tours
Exploring St. Germain on your own is delightful, but if you want to dive deeper into the neighborhood’s rich history, culture, and hidden gems, consider joining a guided tour. Here are some of the best tours that will give you an insider’s perspective on St. Germain:
1. St. Germain des Prés Walking Tour
This walking tour takes you through the heart of St. Germain, exploring its literary and artistic heritage. You’ll visit iconic landmarks like the Église Saint-Sulpice, the Luxembourg Gardens, and the historic cafés where famous writers and philosophers once gathered. The knowledgeable guide will share fascinating stories about the neighborhood’s past, including tales of the French Revolution, existentialism, and the birth of café culture.
Tip: Wear comfortable shoes as the tour covers a lot of ground. Booking in advance is recommended, especially during peak tourist season. You can book your spot HERE.
2. Paris Saint Germain Walking Food Tour with Secret Food Tours
St. Germain is not only rich in history but also in culinary delights. This gourmet food tour takes you on a delicious journey through the neighborhood’s best food spots. You’ll enjoy high-quality French foods such as cheeses, cured meats, macarons, and other treats, as well as famous French wine. We took the Saint Germain Walking Food Tour and at the last minute, the other reservations cancelled and we got a private tour!
Tip: Come hungry, as there will be plenty of tastings throughout the tour. This is also a great way to pick up some local souvenirs. To this day, I’m still rationing our olive oil that I got on this tour.
Insider Tips for Visiting Saint Germain
- Best Time to Visit: St. Germain is charming year-round, but the best times to visit are spring (April to June) and fall (September to November) when the weather is mild, and the streets are less crowded.
- Getting Around: St. Germain is easily walkable, but if you want to explore other parts of Paris, the area is well-served by the Paris Métro. The closest stations are Saint-Germain-des-Prés (Line 4) and Mabillon (Line 10).
- Local Etiquette: When dining in St. Germain, it’s customary to greet the staff with a polite “Bonjour” when entering a café or restaurant. Tipping is not mandatory in France, but it’s appreciated for good service (usually around 5-10%).
- Safety: St. Germain is generally a safe neighborhood, but as with any popular tourist area, it’s wise to keep an eye on your belongings, especially in crowded places like cafés and markets.
- Language: While many locals speak English, learning a few basic French phrases can enhance your experience and help you connect with the local culture.
- Market Days: If you’re a fan of markets, visit the Marché Saint-Germain on Tuesdays, Fridays, or Sundays when the market is in full swing, offering everything from fresh produce to artisanal goods.
Conclusion
St. Germain is a neighborhood that encapsulates the essence of Paris. From its historic cafés and literary heritage to its chic boutiques and art galleries, there’s something for everyone in this vibrant arrondissement. Whether you’re strolling through the Luxembourg Gardens, enjoying a meal at a legendary café, or discovering the hidden corners of the neighborhood on a guided tour, St. Germain offers an unforgettable Parisian experience.
I hope this guide to St. Germain helps you make the most of your visit. Whether you’re here for the history, the food, or simply to soak up the Parisian atmosphere, St. Germain has something special to offer. Enjoy your adventure in one of Paris’s most beloved neighborhoods!
